Clayton Kershaw On — Los Angeles Dodger Bats Off

By Kenny Bristow

Kirby Lee-USA Today Sports

How much more can Los Angeles Dodger ace Clayton Kershaw do? He’s already trimmed his home ERA to an unheard-of below-0ne. Without errors, he gives up just over one run per game. You’d think the blue crew could trip at least two runs across the plate to help out their ace, but they just can’t seem to get it done.

The Dodger offense is inept at this point. Manager Don Mattingly switched a few guys around in order to create some spark, but it did nothing to help L.A. on Wednesday night to avoid being swept by the Arizona Diamondbacks.

The Dodgers are managing to get on base. Not in record numbers, but they are on. The power numbers are what have vanished. The lack of slugging, especially with runners in scoring position, is the most glaring flaw.

Matt Kemp, who was expected to put up huge power digits after an injury plagued 2012, is starting to hit. But there’s little RBI production. Adrian Gonzalez has flashed signs of breaking into power streaks, but lately is bothered by a stiff neck. That is a nagging little injury, but one that any regular pedestrian can attest to.

L.A. has only surpassed the three-run total in 11 games out of 33 this season. Eight of those 11 were wins — not very impressive offensive numbers.

The Dodgers did not turn a corner like they had hoped when they left April behind, but have instead embarked on a dismal-losing streak.

With a day off on Thursday, blue crew fans can only hope that a short breather will cure the sick Dodger bats.

Kenny Bristow is a Los Angeles Dodgers writer for RantSports.com.Follow him on Twitter@kennybristow, “Like” him onFacebookor add him to your network onGoogle